7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the increasingly popular Plaza Porticada, an eye-catching public square in Santander. Next, go to Mercado Del Este.

After visiting Plaza Porticada and Mercado Del Este, take time to explore Santander's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Centro Botin. This noteworthy art gallery offers a unique experience. Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Santander.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at Little Bobby, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Cangas de Onís, Cuadonga/Covadonga, Ribeseya, and Gijon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oviedo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis. This romantic monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Sanctuary Of Covadonga, a must-visit church in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Mirador Del Fitu, an interesting observation deck. For a change of scene, check out San Lorenzo Beach, known for its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Oviedo. Oviedo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oviedo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Quemedás is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Oveja Negra. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Oviedo tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar Astur, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Bodegón, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Baam, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Oviedo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cabezón de la Sal, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Oviedo, including a nature reserve, a maze, a cave, a safari park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. This popular nature reserve is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Villapresente's Labyrinth, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Oviedo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cave Of Altamira, a captivating cave in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cabarceno Natural Park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Bilbao. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your day at Zubizuri. This visually striking art installation is a locally renowned place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Puppy. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Guggenheim Museum.

Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the peaceful Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting park in Bilbao.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This up-and-coming sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Etxebarri Parkea located in Bilbao for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the nature reserve, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Puerto Viejo. For a change of pace, head to Vizcaya Bridge. As one of the most locally renowned attractions in Bilbao, this monument is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Santander, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Sol offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!